Hikers in Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve / photo by Lanette Otvos

Water Wonders

March 2, 2025
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Picchetti Ranch Preserve
Approximate Total Miles
5.5

Take a break from it all by exploring the multiple habitats around the Stevens Creek Reservoir. Which wildflowers are already blooming? Will you cross paths with a newt? Will there be water in the creek and the pond? Come find out! Starting at Picchetti Ranch, you’ll hike the Zinfandel Trail to the Cooley Picnic Area and back with Docent Naturalists Anouchka Gaillard, Peter Maxwell, and Nick Yatsko. You’ll observe how water availability is impacting the flora, fauna, and larger landscape, and you’ll have the option of exploring the pond area on the way back. This moderately-paced route has little elevation change. Bring a snack.

Where to Meet

Meet at the preserve parking lot on Montebello Road. From the intersection of I-280 and Foothill Expressway, go 3.5 miles southwest (toward the mountains) on Foothill Boulevard/Stevens Canyon Road.  Turn right on Montebello Rd.  The preserve is 0.5 miles up Montebello Rd. on the left.

To ensure your experience on a docent naturalist outing is enjoyable please review these activity guidelines.

If your activity requires registration, please be sure to cancel your reservation (from your confirmation email) if you are no longer able to attend so others can participate.

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